She will serve a two-year term leading the board, after having been first vice chair for the past two years. Bowden, who succeeds Robert Doherty, state president for New Jersey at Bank of America, has been on the board since 2009.

“It’s an honor to serve as the chair of this New Jersey Chamber of Commerce board, which represents many of the state’s biggest and best businesses and institutions,” she said in a prepared statement. “The chamber has had a strong history of navigating the business and political environments in New Jersey. We continue to ask questions regarding how we can support our members and help to position them to take advantage of business opportunities in the state. That includes working with the Governor’s Office and Legislature to propose solutions that will help foster economic growth in New Jersey.”

Bowden, a 10-year veteran of PNC, has also served as an executive with Wachovia Wealth Management and as a schoolteacher and author of two children’s math books. Her other board affiliations include the Drumthwacket Foundation, New Jersey Symphony Orchestra and Choose New Jersey, among several others.

“We are extremely fortunate to have Linda’s leadership at this crucial time in Trenton,” chamber CEO and President Tom Bracken said in a statement. “Linda’s strong stature in the business community will help the chamber forge an active and productive partnership with the governor and the Legislature. Linda’s experience will serve the New Jersey Chamber and New Jersey well.”